“Law & Order: SVU” Premiere Really Affected Actress

“Law & Order: SVU” premiered its 15th season on Wednesday night, and the show’s reputation for pushing boundaries has fans buzzing on Twitter and Facebook today. It was so shocking, in fact, that one of the show’s actresses says it really affected her to the point that she was “nervous” to go to work.

“It was, without a doubt, the most difficult episode I ever shot in 15 years, and it was unlike anything I’ve ever done,” Mariska Hargitay said. “But I have to tell you, after 15 years, to be nervous and scared and excited to go to work—it’s a pretty great thing.”

Hargitay–who plays Detective Olivia Benson on the show–opened the premiere by being held at gunpoint by a serial rapist, a storyline that picked up where last season left off. One of the hardest things about shooting such an emotionally charged scene, she says, is the invisible line between wanting to make it as realistic as possible and keeping it from affecting you in a negative way.

“When you’re acting, your body doesn’t know the difference of acting or being in reality, and you try to keep it real…I think you pretty much play the what-if game. It’s just about believing it. I think that’s why you study your whole life to be focused and be present,” she said.

The episode sent fans to Twitter to post about their anxiety as they sat on the edges of their seats (WARNING: possible spoilers). Meanwhile, there’s Emmy talk for Hargitay’s performance.

Mariska Hargitay’s performance on the premiere of SVU was edge-of-your-seat compelling. She deserves an emmy !

Lynda

Last nights episode was one I was really looking forward to seeing. Let me tell you right now that it made my blood run cold!
Merlene, I agree that this was an emmy winning performance without question! Mariska Hargitay’s part could be played no better than it was done # Benson was amazing, This should not go unnoticed!